Casey slams UGB

CASEY council officers have hit out at the State Government’s proposed Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) extensions, saying the municipality’s infrastructure isn’t up to scratch to cope with rapid growth.
They say the proposal ignores Casey’s ongoing concerns about road safety and congestion and will also place pressure on community services.
During its stage two submission to the proposed UGB extensions, the council labelled the State Government’s process to develop the UGB as “rushed” and “ill-conceived”.
The State Government is investigating land in Casey for the expansion of the UGB to accommodate Melbourne’s growing population. The council said the UGB was based on assumptions that a high capacity public transport corridor was provided, with no real commitment it would be delivered.
In their report about the UGB, officers said “without alternative transport options such as improved rail infrastructure and bus services our existing and future residents will be substantially disadvantaged due to their ongoing car dependency”.
The report noted an extension of railway to Clyde should be considered if the UGB is moved.
Mayor Geoff Ablett said some of the land in the investigation area was high quality soil used for agricultural purposes.
“This land has high quality soils that support the production of staple foods for people living in the region,” Cr Ablett said.
“The proposed growth will severely impact Casey’s significant horticulture and agricultural industries, which will also impact on the availability of local jobs and the long-term prosperity of our city.”
Cr Ablett said Casey faced a huge level of additional growth and, if not managed appropriately, it threatened the liveability and safety of existing and future communities.
In its submission, the council also addressed the lack of time and level of consultation allowed by the Growth Areas Authority (GAA) for such a significant issue.